When I was a little boy we were on a farm party line. My mom taught me to take my right hand , palm up, and look at my fingers. 2 shorts, a long, and a short was our ring. If that ring came up I had to quick find her and let her know that "our" phone was ringing. And yes I'm 67 years old and still remember the number. 988-4***. By the way my Mom just turned 96!!! And sharp as a tack! Happy Birthday Mom.